Superman #23.4: Parasite Review

Parasite is such a moocher.

This is one of the best looking Villains Month issues, hands down. It also makes for a pretty great character piece for Parasite, who is a villain I never thought I would find engaging by himself. Impressively, Aaron Kuder is both artist and writer. If anyone wanted proof that this guy is comic book superstar, then read this issue.

Kuder’s art is stylistic, full of clever layouts, and showcases some memorable character designs. His depiction of Parasite is just chilling. That Kuder dresses him in a jacket and a beanie somehow makes it worse because it humanizes him. Humanizes him not counting the fact that, you know, he has nasty purple skin and a mouth that makes the Reapers from Blade II look as kissable as a prom date.

On the narrative side of things, Kuder does a great job developing the character of Parasite -- better than a lot of other Villains Month issues that have followed the same formula. We meet Parasite and are drawn in by his characterization as that friend who mooches off of everyone and is generally a jerk. He’s not endearing or likable, but the way Kuder spins it, you can’t help but want to know more about the guy. And while Parasite’s craving for Superman is nothing new, it’s presented here in a way that makes it seem like a revelation. So not only does Kuder draw the hell out of this issue, but he makes the old seem fresh again. Well done, sir.

Joshua writes for IGN. If Pokemon, Game of Thrones, or Green Lantern are frequently used words in your vocabulary, then you’ll want to follow him on Twitter and IGN.